Month: January 2015

Our first Introduction to leatherwork – leather belt making workshop in Newton Aycliffe went well.

Students were introduced to the principles of hand crafted leatherwork through the making of their very own hand stitched, hand dyed, leather belt in this one day hands on workshop.

Practice Piece

The students practiced all the techniques they would need for making the belt including strap cutting, cutting leather, marking out, stitching etc. by first producing a small leather bookmark.

Threading a Needle

Belting Up

With these skills mastered, the students set off to make the actual belt. First they cut a strap using a strap cutter. They then marked out the end of the belt for the buckle and made the required holes using a hole punch and knife. Following this, the stitching was marked out.

At this stage we showed them how to apply the dye to colour the belt. They both chose a different colour and applied the dye.

A student dyes his belt

Once the dye was dry (it does not take long) the students practiced their new skill of saddle stitch and sewed a buckle of their choice on to the end of the belt.

Wendy Elsdon of Evancliffe Leathercraft assisting a student.

The Buckle has been sewn onto the belt.

The belt was then measured, holes punched and the end shaped to the traditional “Church Window” shape.

The dye was touched up where the end had been cut, the edges were burnished and the belt was finished with a special cream. Both the students left happy with their new skills and their very own hand crafted belt!

Students Proudly Display their Finished Belts

Feedback

We have had some great feedback from people about out Belt Making Workshops:

“The hands-on leathercraft workshop that Clive and Wendy offer are first class. They explain everything in an easy to understand manner, making the course idea for total beginners. The cost of the workshop includes all material so there are no surprises or extra costs.” – Jayson G.

“Thanks to Clive and Wendy for a great course today. Karen really likes the leather belt I made for her and I now know that I will be spending any Xmas money on tools to make some more.” – Bill W.

Future Workshops

Our belt making workshop costs £60.00 per person and includes tuition, use of the tools , the leather for the belt and a buckle.

Tea & Coffee is be provided but students are advised to bring their own lunch and any soft drinks / snacks they require. (Local shopping facilities may be available depending on venue.)